School attendance fines in England explained

Can you take your child out of school during term time? School attendance fines in England explained

With holiday prices often much lower outside of school breaks, many parents wonder whether taking a child out of school during term time is worth the risk. However, unauthorised absences can result in a school attendance fine.

This guide explains the rules on term-time holiday fines, when parents can be fined, how much penalties cost, and what applies across England.  

Key things parents need to know 

• Family holidays during term time are usually classed as an unauthorised absence
• In England, parents may receive a penalty notice if their child accumulates 10 unauthorised absence sessions within a rolling 10-school-week period
• School attendance fines start at £80 per parent, per child, if paid within 21 days
• The rules explained in this guide apply to England only

Can I take my child out of school for a holiday during term time?

In most cases, family holidays are not considered an authorised reason for absence. Schools can only approve leave during term time in exceptional circumstances, meaning many holiday requests will be recorded as unauthorised absences.

Will I get fined for taking my child out of school?

Parents may receive a penalty notice if their child has 10 unauthorised absence sessions within a rolling 10-school-week period. As schools record attendance twice a day, this is usually equivalent to 5 school days. 

How much is a school attendance fine in England?

Under the national framework introduced in August 2024:

• £80 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days
• £160 per parent, per child if paid within 28 days

A second penalty notice within three years is issued at the higher rate, and repeated offences can lead to further legal action.

Example

If two parents take one child out of school for an unauthorised week-long holiday, the total fine could be up to £320.

What counts as exceptional circumstances?

Schools assess requests on a case-by-case basis. Exceptional circumstances are generally situations that are unavoidable, significant and outside a family’s control. Standard family holidays are unlikely to qualify. Parents should always discuss any planned absence with their school before making arrangements.

What happens if I don’t pay a school attendance fine?

Failure to pay a penalty notice can result in further action by the local authority, including court proceedings. In some cases, this can lead to substantially higher fines.

Is it ever worth taking a child out of school during term time?

Every family situation is different. While off-peak holidays can offer significant savings, parents should consider both the financial implications of a penalty notice and the potential impact on their child’s learning and attendance record.

Before booking, it’s always worth checking your school’s attendance policy and discussing any proposed absence with the school.

Do school attendance fines apply to children under 5?

Children under 5 are not yet of compulsory school age, so school attendance fines do not usually apply in the same way. However, nurseries, preschools and reception classes may still encourage regular attendance to support a child’s learning, development and routine.

FAQs

Can schools refuse a holiday request?

Yes. Headteachers can refuse requests for term-time holidays unless exceptional circumstances apply.

How can I avoid school fines for holidays? 

The best way to avoid school fines for holidays is to avoid taking your child out of school during term time unless exceptional circumstances apply. Family holidays are not normally authorised, so parents should always check with their child’s school before making travel arrangements.

Do both parents get fined?

Penalty notices can be issued per parent and per child.

Do I get a criminal record for paying a school attendance fine?

No. Paying a penalty notice resolves the matter. However, failure to pay could lead to legal action.

Are the rules the same across the UK?

No. Attendance and penalty notice rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This blog covers England only.

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